Mobile lighting system

ABSTRACT

A mobile lighting system includes a self-powered mobile base that can be driven long distances and maneuvered in tight locations. An articulateable boom is mounted on the base and has multiple degrees of freedom of movement. A light array is attached to the end of the boom and has additional degrees of freedom of movement. One or more fixtures are mounted on the end of the boom and also have several degrees of freedom of movement, as well as having structure to vary the beam pattern output from each fixture. The system contains power generating means as well as all structure to operate the lights and the boom. Additional features which facilitate the efficient and advantageous provision of the mobile lighting system are also disclosed.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

a. Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to a means and method of temporarilylighting relatively large areas, and inparticular, to a means andmethods for providing controlled and variable temporary lighting.

b. Problems in the Art

A wide variety of events occur which need temporary lighting. Forexample, movie scenes being shot at locations remote from a sound stageusually require supplementary light, even in daytime hours. As anotherexample, on-the-spot television news reports at night could usepowerful, wide scale lighting. Still further, certain special events,whether at day or at night, may need this type of lighting, but cannotjustify installation of permanent lighting.

A conventional way of meeting these needs is utilization of whateverportable or semipermanent lighting is available. This can be in the formof temporary light poles or towers to which are fixed one or more lightfixtures. This type of temporary lighting requires substantial personneland equipment to both erect and disassemble the structures. Also, it isusually somewhat difficult to adjust the aim of the fixture or fixturesonce erected on the structures. While this method does allow elevationof several high powered, wide area lighting fixtures, it takes a lot oftime simply to get these lights constructed and operational. Once done,they are difficult to reposition and adjust. A worker must physicallyclimb or use a mechanical lift to move to the top of the boom to adjustthe lights.

With movie making, such a system is limiting because of the amount oftime needed and the high cost of construction in remote shoots. It doesnot give the lighting director much flexibility once erected. Suchsystems also lack precision and control. To adjust the lights requiresmore equipment and expense.

This type of method is generally unacceptable for transient activitiessuch as news reporting. The event has come and gone before any suchlights can be constructed. The cost of such construction is alsogenerally prohibitive.

Special events usually provide more time to set up lighting. However,again, the time and labor required is substantial and leaves room formore economical solutions.

If some sort of semipermanent or fixed structures are not used, reliancegenerally must be placed on more portable lighting fixtures which aremuch smaller and put out much less light. For example, fixtures can beput on small portable stands or secured to cameras or the like. Suchlights are limited in the amount of light output they can create and theability to control the created light; and therefore, are limited as tothe area they can cover.

Room therefore exists in the art for a lighting system which can meetthese types of needs. Attempts have been made to satisfy these needs.U.S. Pat. No. 4,712,167, issued to inventors Gordin and Drost, entitledREMOTE CONTROL, MOVABLE LIGHTING SYSTEM, illustrates one such attempt. Alarge tractor truck carries a crane which can raise and somewhatarticulate an array of light fixtures. An on-board generator andassociated electronics allows operation of the crane and provides avariety of controls for the aiming of and beam pattern issued by eachfixture in the array. The truck and crane can therefore be loaded withthe light fixtures, driven to a required location, and have allcomponents necessary to relatively quickly connect the fixtures into anarray, and then erect the array of fixtures and power those fixtures.

A primary example of the use of such a system is with respect to specialevents such as night time football games. Several of the trucks can bepositioned spaced around the outside of a football stadium. The cranecan erect the fixtures tens of feet in the air so that the light isprojectable onto the playing surface over the walls of the stadium. Toaccomplish this, each of the fixtures has to be a high power highlyefficient light unit that, when combined with all the fixtures, canproduce the type of light to cover such a wide area, and maintain thehigh level of light needed for television to produce an adequatepicture.

U.S. Pat. No. 4,712,167 is incorporated by reference herein. Itdiscusses in detail how a lighting system that can cover a relativelywide area can at the same time be fairly mobile, and then very flexible.It allows both substantial and subtle control of lighting, eithercompositely for the entire light array, or with respect to groups of orindividual fixtures.

Others have attempted to meet the needs expressed above by utilizing acrane to simply suspend one or more light fixtures. Those methods aredeficient in that while they do allow some mobility, as well as theability to elevate high powered lights to substantial heights, there isa significant absence of control of fixture aiming or of beam patternonce erected and elevated. Most of the systems also are notself-contained, in the sense that they require an auxiliary power sourcethat is not on board.

The system of U.S. Pat. No. 4,712,167, therefore represented asignificant advance in the art. However, there are still matters whichcan be improved upon, and problems which have not been adequatelysolved.

For example, improvement in the set up speed, mobility and flexibilityof such a system is needed. A movie director may desire to shoot a sceneon a crowded big city street. A light source may be required to be setup, moved and tested in various locations and orientations until it isfound acceptable. Large semi-truck tractor vehicles may not havesufficient maneuverability. Additionally, they simply may not be able tobe driven to a desired location. In such situations, the large temporarylighting support structures are probably out of the question. The hourlycost of shooting movies is anywhere from thousands of dollars to tens ofthousands of dollars. Therefore, the ability to quickly and efficientlyadjust lighting, as well as control lighting output, can representsignificant money savings.

There is need also for improvement in how much positioning control isavailable once a mobile platform is in place. Conventional craneassemblies allow the crane arm to be extended substantially, as well assome movement of the arm angularly and rotationally. However, the cranegenerally is for elevating an item, and has limitations as toorientations and degree of articulation.

Still further, room for improvement exists as to how quickly lightingcan be set up in operative condition. The need exists for an absoluteminimum amount of construction or setup steps once on sight, to minimizethe amount of time to bring the lights into position to operate. Thisneed can easily be envisioned with respect to an emergency situation, ora fleeting news event.

Additional room for improvement exists with respect to a system such asdisclosed in the U.S. Pat. No. 4,712,167. More flexibility with respectto the adjustment and control of individual fixtures is desirable. Morecomprehensive control of all the components, including electricalcomponents, of the system is desirable.

Still further, an important aspect of such a system is the ability totransport it without requiring substantial disassembly, or substantialstorage or even packaging of the components during transport. Forexample, in the U.S. Pat. No. 4,712,167, the light fixtures must bedisassembled from the end of the crane during transport because of theirfragile nature and because they can not be sufficiently stabilized. Thispresents the requirement, however, that they be reattached once thetruck arrives at the desired location.

Also, improvement is required of the components of such a system becauseof the wear and tear, environmental factors, and other operationalrealities which must be dealt with for a mobile lighting system thatmust be used in varying climates, locations, and weather. For example,the system must be able to work in conditions of precipitation. It alsomust adequately provide cooling for high power lighting fixtures. Thisall must be done while also making the components resistent to debris,dirt or moisture experienced while being operated and adjusted (inmultiple phases), or during transport.

Additionally, room for improvement needs to be made in the ability tomaintain equipment, or replace components, if needed. The goal is toprovide a system which one person can drive to the desired location, andthen within a matter of a very few minutes erect the lights and providea lighting pattern desired for the moment or event. The goal also wouldbe to allow the system to be maintained and parts replaced within amatter of minutes, even though the system utilizes complex and heavyduty parts and components.

It can therefore be seen that a real need exists in the art forimprovement. A primary object of the present invention is to provide amobile lighting system which solves or improves over the problems anddeficiencies in the art.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a mobile lightingsystem which is easily transported to the desired location; and once atthe location can be easily maneuvered to different locations.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a mobile lightingsystem which has a wide variety of adjustment features to locate and aimthe lighting fixtures once on location.

A still further object of the present invention is to provide a mobilelighting system which can provide high levels of lighting to relativelylarge areas; and high intensity lighting, as desired.

A still further object of the present invention is to provide a mobilelighting system which can provide high powered, high intensity, widescale lighting from a relatively small, highly mobile platform.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a mobile lightingsystem which can be transported for long distances in virtually aready-to-operate condition.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a mobile lightingsystem which deters interference by environment or travel with theoperation of the lighting components.

A still further object of the present invention is to provide a mobilelighting system which can be elevated tens of feet into the air, orarticulated beneath the level of the mobile platform, if desired.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a mobile lightingsystem which can individually control the aiming and beam pattern issuedby each individual lighting fixture.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a mobile lightingsystem which is entirely self-contained including power, electricalcomponents, cooling system, environmental protection systems, andcontrol systems.

A further object of the present invention is to provide a mobilelighting system which minimizes the amount of labor involved intransport and operation.

Further object of the present invention is to provide a mobile lightingsystem which allows remote monitoring of operating parameters of thesystem to insure that it is operating efficiently and correctly.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a mobile lightingsystem which is efficient, economical, and durable.

These and other objects, features, and advantages of the presentinvention will become more apparent with reference to the accompanyingspecification and claims.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention provides a highly mobile and maneuverable platformwhich contains all operational components for high power, wide scale,highly controllable lighting. The platform includes electrical powergenerating means, associated electronic circuitry for operation of oneor more light fixtures, control circuitry to operate the system, and allelectrical interconnections. All of these components and circuitry arepreassembled and shielded from environmental concerns.

A highly articulateable boom means extends from the mobile platform toan array head which is also highly manipulatable. The combinationprovides for a high degree of flexibility in positioning one or more ofthe light fixtures, attached to a light rack, which in turn is attachedto the boom head. Still further, each of the light fixtures isindependently adjustable to pan, tilt, and vary its beam pattern.Individual fixtures can then be used for individual purposes; orcombinations of fixtures or all of the fixtures can be used forcomposite effects.

Cooling systems are provided for both the light fixtures as well as someof the electrical components. Precipitation protection means areprovided for cooling systems to allow needed air flow without raininterfering with the operating components.

Easily accessible structures are provided for components that will mostfrequently have to be serviced or replaced. All of these featurescontribute to the quick, efficient, and economical advantages of thepresent invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a side elevational view of a preferred embodiment of thepresent invention showing the boom and light rack in position fortransport.

FIG. 2 is a side elevational view similar to FIG. 1, except showing theboom and light rack in an extended and elevated position.

FIG. 3 is a side elevational view similar to FIGS. 1 and 2 butillustrating diagrammatically the articulation flexibility of the boom.

FIG. 4 is an enlarged partial side elevational view of the structureenclosed by line 4--4 in FIG. 3.

FIG. 5 is a still further enlarged top plan view of the top of the boomand lighting array shown in FIG. 4.

FIG. 6 is a still further enlarged sectional view taken along line 6--6of FIG. 5.

FIG. 7 is a front elevational view of the light fixture FIG. 6.

FIG. 8 is an enlarged sectional view taken along line 8--8 of FIG. 6.

FIG. 9 is a sectional view taken along line 9--9 of FIG. 8.

FIG. 10 is an isolated perspective view of the structure shown in line8--8 of FIG. 6.

FIG. 11 is an enlarged sectional view taken along line 11--11 of FIG.10.

FIG. 12 is an enlarged partial perspective view of FIG. 10, showing jawsof the lamp mounting means in an open position.

FIG. 13 is an enlarged sectional view taken along line 13--13 of FIG. 6.

FIG. 14 is an enlarged sectional view taken along line 14--14 of FIG. 6.

FIG. 15 is an enlarged perspective view of the portion of FIG. 6contained in line 15--15.

FIG. 16 is an enlarged sectional view taken along line 16--16 of FIG. 6.

FIG. 17 is an enlarged sectional view taken along line 17--17 of FIG.16.

FIG. 18 is a partial side elevational view of the boom, light rack, andlight fixtures in position for transport.

FIG. 19 is a front elevational view taken along line 19--19 of FIG. 18.

FIG. 20 is a side elevational view taken along line 20--20 of FIG. 19.

FIG. 21 is a simplified perspective view of the rear of vehicle of FIG.1, illustrating slideable ballast box.

FIG. 22 is an isolated elevation of view taken along line 22--22 of FIG.21.

FIG. 23 is a diagrammatic depiction of monitoring system and remotepager system according to the invention.

FIG. 24 is a diagrammatic depiction of a leveling system that can beused with the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT

To assist in a better understanding of the invention, a preferredembodiment of the invention will now be described in detail. It is to beunderstood that this is a description of but one form the invention cantake, and is not inclusive of all such forms.

Reference will be taken to the drawings in this description. Referencenumerals are used to indicate specific parts or locations in thedrawings. The same reference numerals will be used for the same partsand locations throughout the drawings, unless otherwise noted.

a. Overview

This description will first begin with a general overview of thepreferred embodiment. It will concentrate on how the complete systemfunctions to meet the objects of the invention. Thereafter, the specificareas of the system will be focused upon.

FIG. 1 shows mobile lighting system 10. Truck 12 (Ford Cargo8000--single rear axle) is a diesel powered mobile platform for system10. Boom 14 (LAOC-51 Model crane from Lift-All, P.O. Box 9738, FortWayne, Ind. 46899) is attached approximately over the rear axle on thebed 16 of truck 12. It is powered by hydraulics from PTO or electricalmotor driven pump and is highly articulateable, as will be described indetail later.

Boom head 18, attached to the distal end of boom 14, is alsomaneuverable. In the preferred embodiment, boom head 18 can be rotatedapproximately 355° with respect to the distal end of boom 14.

Light array 20 is in turn connected to boom head 18 and consists of sixluminaire assembly units or light fixtures 22. As will be described inmore detail below, each fixture 22 can be panned or tilted with respectto light rack 24, which serves as the mounting frame for fixtures 22.The beam shape or pattern emanating from each fixture 22 can also beadjusted as will be discussed later. It is to be understood that use ofthe terms light fixture or fixture indicate the light source generally,including reflector, lamp, and mounting means. These terms also do notimply that the structure is "fixed" or immovable when used inassociation with the invention.

On-board generator 26 is positioned on truck bed 16 generally midwaybetween front and rear axles of truck 12. Generator 26 (CumminsDiesel-powered 60 Kilowatt AC) provides electrical power for operationof the entire system 10.

Ballast box 28 is positioned underneath bed 16 at the rear of truck 12.As will be discussed further, ballast box 28 contains most of theelectrical components needed for operation of high-powered lamps 30 (seeFIG. 6) for fixtures 22.

Control box 32 is also mounted on bed 16. Box 32 contains much of thecontrol electronic circuitry for the entire system 10. It is to beunderstood that additional control elements are positioned inside cab 34of truck 12.

As can be seen, truck 12 is therefore a self-contained mobile lightingcombination. It can be driven at highway speeds across country asneeded. It also can be easily manipulated even in rather confined areasonce on location. The single rear axle cab-over arrangement of truck 12provides an ability for a short, compact turning radius which is notpossible with a double rear axle semi-tractor-type vehicle.

Still further, it can be seen that support arms 36 are carried on bed16. As is well known in the art, these arms are extended and firmlysecured on the ground whenever boom 14 is operated. They serve tostabilize and level truck 12 when boom 14 is operated.

Generator 26 is soundproofed to minimize noise of its internalcombustion engine. It provides enough voltage and wattage to power up tosix several thousand watt lamps 30, as well as the motors and actuatorsfor boom 14 the boom head 18, and fixtures 22, and any electroniccomponents associated with other circuitry or structure associated withsystem 10. This relatively small mobile platform of truck 12, therefore,can produce high power, high intensity, wide scale lighting without anyconnection to any other power source. Boom 14 can be extended up to 60feet in the air. If all six fixtures 22 are coordinated, the array 20can produce a light level which is effective over distances of generalthousand feet or more. Because the intensity of light diminishes overdistances, it is easily understood how very high levels of light can becreated when the array is closer to its target area. In fact, the system10 is capable of producing a simulated "bright-sunlit" day regardless ofother existing lighting conditions.

FIG. 1 further depicts how all components for system 10 arepre-assembled and ready to operate. No on-location assembly is required.Essentially, system 10 can be driven to the location, put in position,and then within only several minutes, boom 14 can be extended to anynumber of different configurations. The operator then can turn any orall of the lights on and control their orientation, if desired.

An important aspect of the embodiment is the ability to transport lightfixtures 22, including lamps 30, in operational condition. In otherwords, these somewhat fragile components, including glass lenses andglass bodies, do not need to be dismounted and being stored in specialpacking or otherwise encased for protection even when driving down theroad.

Still further, it is pointed out that all wiring through the boom intolight array 20 is within boom 14 and the structure of boom head 18, andlight rack 24. This protects the cabling from the elements and also is apart of the pre-assembly of the invention.

Still further, all of the substantial electronic components, other thanactuators for boom 14 and boom head 18, and motors for movement offixtures 22 and lamps 30, are contained at ground level. In particular,ballast box 28 is slideable on rails from the rear of truck 22 so thatit can be easily accessed with respect to capacitors, ballasts, andother significant electrical parts.

System 10 allows complete control of operation of boom 14 and fixtures22 by remote control 38 (schematically depicted in FIG. 2). Control 38is hard-wired into control box 32 by cable 40 (which can be several feetto several hundred feet long). This allows the operator (whether it bethe truck operator or a lighting director for a movie company, or thelike) to stand away from truck 12 and manipulate system 10.

It can therefore be seen that system 10 provides the high flexibilityand control needed for mobile lighting purposes, with the addedadvantage of being self-contained, with a high degree of flexibility andchoices.

b. Articulateable Boom

Boom 14 is constructed to be articulateable in several planes. It alsohas a rotatable base on truck bed 16. A first section 40 extends to amiddle joint 42. A second section 44 extends from the joint 42 to asecond joint 4 to which is attached boom head 18.

As can be seen, each boom section 40, 44 is extendable longitudinally.This allows the entire boom 14 to be folded up in the position shown inFIG. 1; but then extended up to almost 60 feet in total length.

A joint 48 at the base, and joint 42 at the middle, allow it to befolded back onto itself as shown in FIG. 1. They also allow it to bearticulated so that its distal end can reach a majority of positions onthe surface of a sphere of 80 feet in diameter as shown in FIG. 3; aswell as a majority of positions within that sphere. Of particularinterest is the fact that it can be articulated so that the secondportion of boom 14 can actually extend downwardly to the point that ifdesired, light array 20 could be positioned underneath the level oftruck 12 (see FIG. 3).

The high degree of articulation available with boom 14 therefore makesthe exact positioning of truck 12 less critical. It also provides forextremely broad flexibility to adjust light array 20, even slightly,with a minimum amount of time and effort. As will be discussed in moredetail later, each fixture 22 can also be adjusted to project lightenergy in virtually any direction substantially at any point on orwithin the sphere described above.

c. Translatable Boom Head 18

Boom head 18 is rotatable by virtue of a pivot member 50 and motor 52 atthe distal end 54 of boom 14. It is virtually rotatable 355° which inturn means that the entire light array 20 can be turned almost acomplete revolution. Therefore, boom 14 can be easily and quicklyoperated to move array 20 to any number of different orientations andpositions. Then, boom head 18 can be operated to rotate the array 20 asdesired.

FIG. 2 illustrates how boom 14 can be extended upwardly. It is to beunderstood that each general section 40 and 44 of boom 14 can betelescopically extended. Therefore, total length of boom 14, whenretracted and then manipulated to the position shown in FIG. 1, is muchless than what total length of boom 14 can be when fully extended. Thisalso contributes to the ability of boom 14 to be transported on asmaller size truck 12, yet have a high degree of flexibility by beingable to extend very high vertically.

The extension and articulation of boom 14 is controlled by hydrauliccylinders and hydraulic motors, such as are known within the art. It isnoted that truck 12 has a single rear axle. Its significant that itallows a higher degree of maneuverability of truck 12, especially intight places, than a double rear axle vehicle or trailer.

FIG. 2 also schematically shows remote control 38. This remote controlallows the operator to have greater vision of operation of boom 14 andmanipulation of various fixtures 22 and light rack 24, as well as thelighting effect the system has produced. It is also noted thatpositioning of generator 26, control box 32, and boom 14 (as well as theother components) is designed to maximize even distribution of weight ontruck 12.

FIG. 3 diagrammatically depicts the flexibility of boom 14. With truck12 in the position shown, base 56 of boom 14 provides a basic referencepoint. Base 56 pivots 359° around axis 58. First section 40 of boom 14pivots between horizontal (0°) and 100° as shown at 60. Second section44 of boom 14 pivots 270° with respect to first section 40 as shown at62. Still further, light rack 24 pivots 180° on the end of boom 14 asshown at 64.

FIG. 3 therefore depicts that light array 20 can be positioned in amajority of locations in a sphere centered at base 56, with theperimeter of the sphere defined by boom 14 being fully extended along anaxis. Obviously, placement of light array 20 in the sphere at a levelbelow truck 12 is limited, but as shown in FIG. 3, such placement ispossible to some extent by the appropriate manipulation of boom 14. Seefor example reference number 20E wherein light array 20 can actually bepositioned below level of truck 12. Compare also the position of lightarray 20 at reference numbers 20A through 20E.

d. Array of Fixtures

By referring to FIGS. 4 and 5, light array 20 is more specificallyshown. Light rack 24 has a rather complex shape. It also holds threepairs of fixtures 22 (22A and B, 22C and D, and 22E and F) in offsetpositions (see FIGS. 4 and 5). Each fixture 22 can be panned about 350°around a pivot axis (see FIG. 5 at 66). They each can also be tiltedapproximately 220° from that axis (see FIG. 4 at 68). Each fixturetherefore can independently be altered in orientation substantially. Aspreviously discussed, this high degree of control allows for exotic andcomplex composite beam patterns from array 20. Furthermore, each fixturecan emit a variably shaped beam as desired. This further contributes tothe flexibility of lighting effects that can be produced with system 10.Each fixture is panned, tilted, and has its beam pattern adjustable byoperation of D/C electrical motors and associated gearing. One exampleof this type of motor and gearing arrangement is found at U.S. Pat. No.4,712,167.

The distal end 54 of boom 14 has a 180° pivot 70 with respect to boomhead 18. A hydraulic cylinder 72 (or electric actuator) with appropriatelinkage controls the 180° pivot around pivot 70. As shown in FIG. 5,boom head 18 includes first section 74 and a second section 76. Section74 and 76 are rotatable with respect to one another around axis 78 toprovide 355° rotation of second section 76 with respect to first section74. A motor and an appropriate gearing, such as is known in the art, ishoused within boom head 18 to accomplish this rotational movement. FIG.5 also shows that second section 76 of boom head 18 is pivotablyattached to light rack 24 along a pivot 80. An electric actuator (motionsystems) 82 can pivot light rack 24 up to 120° around pivot 80.

The degrees of freedom of movement of these parts of system 10, combinedwith the freedom of movement of boom 14, combine to provide the highdegree of articulation and flexibility for positioning of light array20.

FIG. 5 shows that light rack 24 has two parallel arms 86 and 88 whichhave adjacent ends connected to the second section 76 of boom head 18.Arms 86 and 88 are connected at their other end to front bar 90 which istransverse to the arms 86 and 88. Side wing bars 92 and 94 angle back atapproximately 45° from front bar 90. A variety of cross bars 96strengthen and support arms 86 and 88, and bars 90, 92, 94.

FIG. 4 shows that pairs of fixtures 22 are positioned in offsetrelationships to each other on light rack 24. Mounts 98 A, B, and C aretransverse to bars 90, 92, and 94 and space the fixtures of each pair offixtures 22 approximately equally from rack 24. As shown in FIG. 4, eachfixture 22 consists of a base 100 which allows panning and tilting offixture 22. Bases 100 are rotatably mounted on the mounts 98.

FIG. 5 shows that each pair of fixtures 22 are offset and spaced apartfrom one another by the angling of wing bars 92 and 94. The spacing isuniform to allow independent panning and tilting of each fixture withrespect to one another. It is furthermore to be understood that spacingof the fixtures 22 with regard to each fixture and with regard to eachset of pairs, is such that the center of gravity of each fixture of eachpair, as well as each pair of fixtures counter balances the other. Nomatter how the different fixtures 22 are pivoted or rotated, the entirearray 20 remains balanced.

As can be seen in FIG. 6, lamps 30 are axially (see axis 102) mountedwithin substantially parabolic reflectors 104. Lamps 30 are highintensity metal halide lamps (or tungsten/halogen 10,000 watt) ofratings between one and eighteen thousand watts. They produce atremendous amount of light energy at their light source. The axialmounting of these lamps 30 (particularly 6,000 watt and higher wattlamps) allows the most efficient and effective utilization of the lightenergy from the light source. Combination of the axial mounting of lamps30 and the particular shape of the reflectors efficiently utilizes thelight energy. A substantial majority of the light energy is radiatedradially from about the equator of the spherical bulb portion of thelamp 30 (in other words generally perpendicular from the longitudinalaxis of the lamp). The shape of the reflector basically wraps aroundthis projected equator to capture and effectively redirect and controllight. This translates into being able to direct a highly controlled butlarge amount of light energy to a target area, even a substantialdistance away. It is noted that lamp 30 can be moved relative to axis102 by being mounted to carriage 106 which is slid relative to block 108by linkage 110. A motor (not shown) can control this action. Referencecan be taken to U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,729,077 or 4,712,167, incorporated byreference herein, for specific structure for this feature.

A primary problem in utilizing axially mounted HMI lamps in thisconfiguration, is the tremendous heat that is created by the lamp and bythen collecting and converging the light energy with a reflector. Inparticular, the interior of fixtures 22 must be forced-air cooled toallow this configuration to effectively operate. Without cooling, theend seals 112, 114 (and particularly the end seal 114 at the outer endof lamp 30) are susceptible of over heating and failure. In the past,lamps of the type of lamp 30 could not be positioned axially in areflector. The most vulnerable portions of the lamp are seals 112 and114. They are the most vulnerable part of the lamp to heat damage. Thisis why seals 112 and 114 are extended so far away from center portion ofthe lamp. When mounting the lamp axially, end seal 114 is placeddirectly in a hot zone created by the light energy emanating from thefixture.

In the preferred embodiment, a pressurized air cooling system isutilized as shown at FIG. 6. It basically consists of a blower fan 116and a forced air flow system for each fixture 22. The fan is situated ina housing consisting of base 100 attached to the fixture 22. A rainprotector air inlet member 118 associated with base 100 allows air in.The air is then forced through conduit 120 into a housing 122surrounding what is called a hot box 121, which in turn surrounds endseal 112 of lamp 30. Pressurized air from fan 16 then is directed in twopaths. First, it passes through apertures 123 in the back of the housing122. Pressurized cooling air then flows out aperatures 124 into the gap103 between reflector 104 and outer shroud 105, transporting heat fromthe hot box reflector and shroud to outlet vents 130 positioned aroundthe outer perimeter edge of the reflector shroud combination.

It is to be understood that hot box 121 serves an important function. Itis insulated and isolated from the other components except for apertures123 and 124. A substantial amount of heat builds up around seal 112. Itis important to shield this heat from the components in base 100 such asthe ignitor, motors, fan, gears, wiring, etc. Therefore, the hot box 121keeps as much heat as possible inside its interior and then utilizes thepressurized air to expel such heat out apertures 124 and out vents 130.

In the present invention, a single ended igniter system 261 is usedwhere end 112 of lamp 30 receives a high amount of voltage. Block 106includes an electrically insulating ceramic piece upon which the lamp ismounted to also electrically isolate the lamp 30 from other componentsof the system.

Front end seal 114, is also very vulnerable to heat because it is placedwithin the heat stream generated by the reflector 104. It is to beunderstood that interior of reflector 104 is substantially sealed byvirtue of the lens 254 covering its open face. Pressurized cooling airfrom fan 116 therefore also travels in a second path through conduit120, into housing 122, and then through an aperture into tube 126 whichdirects pressurized air directly upon end seal 114. A shield 128opposite the tube 126 (and surrounding much of seal 114) captures thestream of air to concentrate it on that end seal. Air outlets 131 arethen provided around the perimeter of reflector 104 (see FIG. 7) toexpel hot air from the interior of reflector 104 out vents 130.

It can therefore be seen that each fixture has a pressurized air coolingsystem which concentrates fast moving air on both end seals 112 and 114.It is noted that air outlets 130 consist of filters 132 covered by hoods133, which deter entry of debris or moisture into the interior ofreflector 104 by being completely enclosed except for narrow outlet 135.

FIG. 6 also shows in more detailed fashion how fixture 22 can be bothpanned and tilted. Base 100 has a first arm 134 which is pivotallyconnected on axle 136 to mount 98. This allows virtually 355° rotationof base 100 around axle 136 for almost complete circle panning. Arm 138of base 100, generally perpendicular to arm 134, presents axle 140 towhich housing 122 is pivotally connected. This arrangement allowsbasically 220° pivoting or tilting of fixture 22 with regard to axle140.

In both instances, a motor 142 or 144 is a linear drive motor attachedto a drive shaft 146 or 148; which in turn by gearing well known in theart causes axle 136 or 142 to turn. Both drive systems are enclosedwithin base 100 to keep them from the elements. As will be described inmore detail later, inlet 118 is configured to keep precipitation ordebris out of the interior of base 100. Each outlet or vent 130 aroundthe perimeter of reflector 104 has a hood 133. Only small directopenings covered by filter material on the sides of vents 130 exist toshield precipitation or debris from the interior of reflector 104.

An important feature of the present invention is this ability to turneach light fixture 22 in any number of different orientations withrespect to the ground. As with any electrical component, moisture is asignificant problem. Because system 10 will be used outdoors, it issusceptible to precipitation. The present invention therefore includesair inlet structure for each fixture 22 which allows the air intakes andoutlets to work for cooling of each lamp 30, but does not allowprecipitation or any sort of moisture to readily flow to vitalcomponents on the lamp structure.

The structure for what will be called the rain filter is as follows.Referring to FIG. 6, as well as FIG. 15, air inlet 118 is seen. A squaretube 152 is mounted in a mating opening 154 in arm 138 of base 100. Ithas an outer open end 156. A shroud 158 is mounted on the end of arm 138of base 100 and surrounds but is spaced apart from tube 152. A screenedopening 160 exists the outer end of shroud 158 (see FIG. 15). A canopy162 (see FIG. 6) can be held above screened opening 160 to preventprecipitation from directly entering screened opening 160.

Bolts and nuts 164 and 166 in each corner of shroud 158 extend inwardlyinto shroud 158 and hold a first blocking plate 160 between screenedopening 160 and opening 154 in tube 152. Plate 168 is larger thanopening 154. A second blocking plate or more accurately a blocking ring170 is secured around the exterior of tube 152. Finally, screenedoutlets 172 are positioned around the sides of shroud 158 near thejunction of shroud 158 and base 100.

Air inlet 118 operates as follows. Canopy 162 blocks debris orprecipitation from directly entering screened opening 160. If anyprecipitation does get around shroud 158, it has to pass throughscreened opening 160 but then is blocked from opening 154 by blockingplate 168. Therefore, no matter what orientation base 100 is in,precipitation, or debris, can not enter opening 154. This maintains theinterior of base 100 free from water. Any water that would enterscreened opening 160, would be diverted by blocking plate 168 and thenflow around sides of tube 152 and out screened outlets 172. Inparticular, it is noted that if base 100 is oriented in the position ofFIG. 15, gravity would send fluid along the sides of tube 152 and outscreened outlets 172. If base 100 is oriented in the position shown inFIG. 6, any fluid which enters screened opening 160 would flow to thebottommost wall of shroud 158 and out screened outlets 172.Additionally, canopies 174 can cover screened outlets 172 (see FIG. 6).Any precipitation which might enter screened outlet 172 in FIG. 6, wouldflow around tube 152 and out the bottom of screened outlet 172.

Even if base 100 was oriented so that air inlet 118 was upside down fromthe position shown in FIG. 15, any fluid which entered screened outlets172 and flowed to the sides of tube 152, would be blocked by blockingring 170 to the outside of tube 152 and gravity would take the fluid outof screened opening 160.

FIGS. 8-12 show an additional feature of the present invention. A quickrelease lamp mount system is provided for each fixture 22. This allowsthe elimination of having to untighten or tighten bolts to remove orinstall lamp 30. Instead lamp 30 can be removed and a new lampsubstituted in a matter of seconds.

In FIG. 8 it can be seen that a two piece clamp 176 surrounds one end oflamp 30. Bolts 178 and nuts 180 hold the two pieces of the clamp inposition. The outer end of bolts 178 are generally utilized inconventional structures to secure lamp 30 to a mounting block to holdlamp 30 securely in place. It requires a substantial amount of effortand time to tighten or un-tighten bolts 178 if lamp 30 needs to bereplaced. This is particularly problematic in situations where theprovision of light from fixtures is critical, and any down time must beminimized with respect to replacement of lamps 30.

FIG. 8 shows that instead of bolting lamp 30 down to a mounting block,bolts 178, on opposite sides of lamp 30 extend down and are retained byjaws 182 and 184 of the quick mount system. Jaw 182 overlays jaw 184 butis connected at flat portion 186 of jaw 184. The outer ends of jaws 182and 184 are free. Jaw 184 is then secured by bolts to carriage 106. Arelease lever 188, has a handle 190 which is perpendicular to bentportion 192. Bent portion 192 includes a V-shaped middle positionedbetween jaws 182 and 184. By pushing lever 188, in the direction ofarrow 196 (in FIGS. 8 and 10) V-shaped portion 194 would urge jaw 182upward. Jaw 182 is made of spring steel or other resilient material,causing separation of the outer ends of jaws 182 and 184 from oneanother but biasing jaw 182 towards jaw '84 FIGS. 8-10 show the jaws ina closed position; FIG. 12 shows jaws in an open position.

FIG. 11 shows clamp 176, bolts 178, and nuts 180. Nuts 200 areadditionally threaded unto bolts 178. FIG. 10 shows that slots 202 existin upper jaw 182. Slots 202 have a first portion of a width larger indiameter than nuts 200 and then a second portion 206 which is onlyslightly larger than the diameter of bolts 178 and smaller in diameterthan nuts 200.

To insert lamp 30 into the quick release system of the invention, lever188 is pushed in the direction of arrow 196 to raise jaw 182 to theposition of FIG. 12. Nuts 200 of bolts 178 are vertically inserted intothe first portions 204 of slots 202 and then moved forward into thesecond portions 206 of slots 202. As shown in FIG. 12, curved retainingwalls 208 are positioned behind apertures 210 and lower jaw 184. Theends of bolts 178 are then vertically placed down into apertures 210.Lever 188 is released allowing the resilience of jaw 182 to close jaw182 unto jaw 184, locking bolts 178 and nuts 200 into apertures 210 andretaining walls 208.

To quickly release and remove lamp 30, a reverse procedure is utilized.

e. Power and Electrical Support Circuitry For Operation of Fixtures 22Contains Advantageous Features

As mentioned, the cabling for all components of system 10 is allpre-connected and protected from the environment. The generator 26 isonboard and soundproofed. All controls are prewired and environmentallyprotected.

A particularly advantageous feature is the provision of ballast box 28on slide rails at the rear of truck 12. As can be seen in FIGS. 21 and22, ballast box 28 is carried underneath bed 16 and is protected in thatposition. The structure of box 28 is such that it protects thecomponents from the environment. Ballast box 28 includes fans 212 whichcirculate cooling air through the box 28 when operating. Duringtransportation, vents (depicted schematically at 214 A-C) are sealed offby either slideable doors (or hinged doors) 216. On location those vents214 are opened allowing air input and/or output. Note that vents 214 Aand B, have hinged doors that serve as awnings to prevent dropping fromthe underside of truck 12 to enter box 28.

As shown in highly simplified fashion at FIGS. 21 and 22, ballast box 28is slideable upon rails 220 and 222 from a concealed position insidetruck 12, to an extended position (shown by dashed lines). As shown inFIG. 22, doors 224 would allow access to ballast 218 and otherelectrical components such as fans 212 inside ballast box 28 whenneeded. This is much more convenient for maintenance purposes than ifthe ballasts are individually mounted on the fixtures at the top of theboom. Moreover, it allows better weight distribution with respect to thevehicle, in addition to providing more room on truck bed 16.

Box 28 can be slideable by means known within the art, and in thisembodiment, rollers 226 are utilized with respect to I-beam shape rails220 and 222. Sliding of box 28 works just like many cabinet or filedrawers. I-beams 220, 222 slide on rollers with respect to truck framerails 221, 223 on rollers 225 (two per side) as box 28 is being pulledat. Movement of I-beams 220, 222 stages when they are extended aboutone-half the length of box 28 from the rear of truck 12. Box 28 can thenbe further rolled out on rollers 227 to almost its full length. I-beams220, 222 serve to support the weight of box 28, similar to a file boxdrawer arrangement. When put in position shown in FIG. 21, a lockingbeam or brace can be secured to the back of truck 12 against the ends ofrails 220 and 222 to protect box 28 from sliding out, or from damage ifrear of truck 12 is struck against an object or by another object.

f. Miscellaneous Features

The remote control shown schematically at FIG. 2 allows the operator tocontrol boom head 18 and the individual movement and beam pattern fromeach individual fixture 22. Reference can be taken to U.S. Pat. No.4,712,167 with respect to such remote controls.

The preferred embodiment also utilizes a remote pager which can becarried by the operator. FIG. 23 schematically portrays the remote pagersystem. The remote pager 228 receives continuous signals from thecontrol box 32 or controls in cab 34 of truck 12. If an operationalparameter of system 10 exceeds a given operation range, a radiotransmitter 230 will send an alarm signal to the pager 228. For example,in the preferred embodiment, transducers 232 of the operation ofgenerator 26 are monitored. When generator 26 operates within acceptableranges, the radio transmitter 230 is dormant. However, if it goes out ofrange it sends a signal to warning lights 231. The transmitter 230 alsoreceives the signal and transmits an alarm signal to pager 228. Thiswould inform the operator to check the controls. Such a system isextremely helpful in the following situation, as an example.

Movies are made by passing film at a given frame per second rate past anaperture optically connected to the camera lens. If, for example, a turnof the century wagon, with large spoke wheels, is being filmed, thefrequency of the light from lamps 30 must be coordinated with the speedof the film so that a strobe affect is avoided. Therefore, the operatorof system 10 works with the film and lighting director to insure thiscorrelation is set. If, however, generator operation changesunexpectedly it could change the frequency output of the lights enoughto throw off any correlation between frequency of the lights andfrequency of film speed. The pager system therefore would immediatelynotify the operator of such a problem and allow it to be corrected. At aminimum, it would allow the operator to inform the lighting directorthat a frequency "out of range" condition had occurred. It is to beunderstood that in preferred embodiment, other parameters can bemonitored. For example, with respect to generator 26, water temperature,oil pressure, over speed, and over current could additionally bemonitored by appropriate transducers such as are known in the art, andsuch as are already installed on generator used in the preferredembodiment. Generator used in the preferred embodiment also has a seriesof components that operate a warning light and on the generator if anyof these parameters exceed desirable limits. In the preferred embodimenttherefore, radio transmitter 230 would simply be connected to the wiringthat goes to the warning lights. If any warning light is energized, itwill in turn instruct the radio transmitter 230 to issue a warningsignal over radio waves to portable receiver 228, which in turn alarmsor notifies the operator who is carrying receiver 228 of the conditions.All of these components can be put together by off the shelf products inconjunction with the existing generator. It is important to understandthat value of such a system is substantial with the present invention.The present invention allows the operator to move several hundred feetaway from truck 12 with the remote control. Because of the nature ofwide skill lighting, the operator may even be required to move evenfarther away. Present invention allows all matters of system 10 to becontrolled by one operator. This has the substantial advantage overprior art systems which require more than one operator. Many timesconventional systems require a worker to run and monitor the generator,a worker to control the crane, and then one or more workers to installand adjust the lamps and light fixtures. The type of wide scale lightingallowed by the present invention, a single operator sometimes has to goeven a farther distance from truck 12. The remote paging system thatallows the operator to do this with the ability to be notified if anyconditions on the truck 12 exist. The operator can therefore immediatelyreturn and correct the problem, or at least know that the situationexists.

FIGS. 13, 14, 16, 17 depict an additional feature of the presentinvention. As discussed with respect to FIG. 6, actuators and driveshafts are utilized to pan and tilt each fixture 22. This requiresbasically a rack and pinion arrangement to translate rotation of thesmall diameter drive shaft to a larger diameter pinion gear. It alsorequires that the rack and pinion be kept in to secure engagement. Ithas been found, however, that for a variety of reasons it is necessaryor desirable to be able to disengage the drive system to allow manualmoving of a fixture 22 or to allow removal of the actuator. In thepreferred embodiment, referring to FIGS. 13 and 14, this type of quickrelease system is depicted. FIG. 13 shows a motor 142 and a drive shaft146 which rotates in response to operation of 142. A rack 236 existsalong shaft 146 and is operably engaged to pinion gear 238. Rotation ofshaft 146 translates into rotation movement of pivot pinion 238.

FIG. 14 shows that shaft 146 has a universal joint 240 (such as is knownin the art) disposed along its length between motor 142 and rack 236.The preferred embodiment universal joint 240 simply consists ofresilient rubber tube 241 bridging a gap between portions of shaft 146.Tube 241 is secured to opposite shaft portions by clamps 243. Thisuniversal joint 240 therefore allows the portion 245 of shaft 146 to bepivoted to an extent in any direction from the axis of shaft 146. It isfurther noted in FIG. 14 that tanged end 247 is madeably secured intoslot 249 and adjacent portions of shaft 146. A spring loaded detenteball 250 intanged end 247 holds it in slot 249. However, tanged end 247can be easily removed from slot 249 by pulling tanged end 247 in adirection out of the side of slot 249 (for example, perpendicularly outof the page in FIG. 14). This allows motor 250 to be quickly disengagedfor maintenance or replacement. The very outer end of shaft 146 isrotatably mounted in an acentric cam 24. Cam 242 is rotatable within thehousing 244 of base 100. An extension 246 passes through housing 244 toa control handle 248 on the exterior of housing 244. It is noted that inthe preferred embodiment, rack 236 is actually comprised of a coilspring 250 surrounding shaft 146.

FIG. 16 shows that the same arrangement including a motor 144, driveshaft 148, and a rack pinion 236 and 238 exists for tilting of a fixture22. FIG. 14 shows the arrangement for panning of fixture 22.

FIG. 17 illustrates that when control handle 248 is rotated, extension246 causes ecentric cam 242 to turn. This results in displacement of therack 236 of drive shaft 146 or 148 to disengage rack 236 from pinion238. The arrangement is biased so that normally rack 236 is urgedagainst pinion 238. However, if handle 248 is turned far enough, rack236 will be held away from pinion 238. Therefore, pinion and rack 238and 236 are normally engaged which serves to lock fixtures 22 frommovement. However, if it is desired to manually move fixtures 22,handles 248 are turned to separate the rack opinion and allow freepanning or tilting of fixture 22.

FIGS. 18-20 illustrate another feature of the present invention. Aprimary advantage of the invention is the ability to transport theentire system 10 in an assembled, ready to go form down the highway.Although all the components are assembled to be able to withstand thedemands for such a system, some components, especially light fixtures 22and lamps 30 (along with glass reflector lenses 254) are somewhatfragile. Normally, lighting fixtures of this type need to bedisassembled and protectively packed or stored during transport. Asshown in FIG. 18 (for also FIG. 1) however, boom 14 can be articulatedto position light array 20 over the rear of bed 16 of truck 12 duringtransport. Additionally, each of the fixtures 22 can be orienteddownwardly.

As previously mentioned, the fixtures are balanced on light rack 24 sothat center of gravity and therefore much of the stress and strain isconcentrated on light rack 24. Additionally, in the transport position,boom head 18 is angled downwardly from the end of boom 14 so that lightrack 24 is below the end of boom 14. If any maintenance needs to be doneon fixtures 22, they are then easily accessible. They are also,therefore in a position to be effectively transported.

However, to further secure and stabilize light array 20 in a rigidposition, and to minimize vibration or forces that would damage array20, removable braces 256 and 258 are secured between light rack 24 andjoint 48 of boom 14 near base of boom 14. Essentially this configurationforms a triangle between the end of boom 14 (see letter A in FIG. 18),attachment of brace 156 to light rack 24 (letter B in FIG. 18) and theattachment of brace 256 at or near joint 48 of boom 14 (letter C). Theweight of the entire array 20 presents a force downward in the directionof arrow 260. Because it is pivotable with respect to boom head 18 andthe outer end of boom 14, this creates a force in the direction ofarrows 262 which establishes a high degree of stability for the system.Any bumps or jarings experienced by truck 12 or boom 14 along thehighway will then cause these forces to provide even more stability tominimize any vibrations or forces which would tend to vibrate or jarlight array 20 or fixtures 22 during transport.

In the preferred embodiment, braces 256 and 258 are bars havingover-center clamps 264 and 266 to rigidly draw the components together.

FIG. 20 shows that rods 268, 270, and 272 can also be utilized to holdfixtures 22 into position during transport. Ears 274 can be positionedalong components on light array 20 in a line with aligned apertures.Rods 268, 270, 272 can then be inserted through those ears and securedinto position by bolts. These rods therefore help ensure that forcesexperienced during transport will not excessively jar the motors andgearings utilized for panning and tilting of fixtures 22.

Single End Ignitor

The single end ignitor system 261 of the present invention enhances thepresent invention because it allows for a portable articulateablefixture. Ignitor systems for arc lamps are well known within the art.Generally, high voltage wires of substantial size must be communicatedwith both ends of a lamp 30 to provide substantial voltages at thoseends. The problems with this arrangement are that these wires (sometimesrequiring up to 3 inches in clearance) take up a lot of room in thefixture as well as must be protected from the heat and electricallyisolated and insulted from other components.

The present invention utilizes a single end ignitor 261 having theelectrical ignitor component mounted in the base 100, which is away fromthe heat and outside hot box 121. Ignitor is electrically communicatedwith end 112 of lamp 30 and provides approximately 277 volts to thatend. This is sufficient to ignite arc lamp 30. It is safer than otherprior art systems which utilize up to 30,000 volts. It also eliminatesthe large cable required to end 114 of lamp 30.

Leveling Indicators

Another feature of the invention is the utilization of levelingindicators to tell the operator if parts of system 10 are level withrespect to horizontal. As shown in simplified and schematic fashion inFIG. 24. Two Mercury switches 280, 282 are positioned on the top of eachof the four support legs 36 for truck 12. The mercury switches indicatewhen the top of each of those legs is horizontally level. The operatorthen can easily determine if the entire truck 12 (and particularly bed16) is horizontally level.

Operation and structure of these type of switches can be seen incommonly owned U.S. Pat. No. 5,012,398 by inventor Jones, et al.entitled "Light Bar Leveler", which is incorporated by reference herein.Each switch is calibrated to close an electrical connection when it ishorixantally level. Each switch can be connected to an indicator panel288 which will energize a light 290, 292 showing whether the mercury284, 286 in a particular switch is horizontal or not. A panel can thengiven this indication for each of the mercury switches to allow theoperator to control adjustment of legs 36 until everything ishorizontally level. Additionally, the switches can be orientedperpendicularly to indicate leveling in two directions.

Moreover, these type of mercury switches can be included at otherpositions on truck 12. For example, mercury switches could be positionedon light rack 24, or boom head 18. By connecting the switches to acontrol panel such as previously discussed, the operator would be ableto see if each of those components were horizontally level or not. Aprimary advantage would therefore be to allow the operator to see notonly if those features were horizontal, but to be able to immediatelysee the relative orientation of one part of system 10 to the other.

Independent Light Array

It is to be understood that the preferred embodiment has been discussedutilizing light array 20 in association with boom 14 and truck 12. Itshould be appreciated that array 20, including light rack 24, andperhaps even structure similar to boom head 18, could be independentlyutilized by other elevating structure. For example, array 20 could besuspended from an elevated beam in a theater. Electronic cabling couldthen be directed down to a control panel and to an electrical powersource. The remote control or other control could then be used tooperate array 20 and its individual fixtures 22.

PARTS LIST

Following is informamation on some of the components used in thepreferred embodiment.

Igniter 261 is available from L. P. Associates, Inc., 6650 LexingtonAve., Hollywood, Cal. 90038, under model number 4675X. The igniter is asingle end igniter operable from 208 Volts AC provided by the generator.It can provide a 50,000 Volt electrical charge to ignite the gap betweenelectrodes and the arc lamp 30.

Generator 26, and associated equipment, is available from Cummins-Onanof Golden Valley, Minn., under product number 60DTR2-L/30481.

The actuator which powers the movement of carriage 106 to move lamp 30in fixture 22 is available from Warner Electric, 449 Gardner St., SouthBeloit, Ill. 61080, under model number S12-17A8-01.

The motor which rotates boom head 18 is available from W. W. Granger,Des Moines, Iowa, under Dayton Electric Mfg. product number 2Z800D. Theactuators to pan and kilt light fixtures 22 are available from W. W.Granger, under product number 4Z835. The blower or fan 116 for thecooling system for fixture 22 is available from W. W. Granger, undermodel number 4C761. Fans 212 for ballast box 28 are available from W. W.Granger, under product number 4C549.

The motor actuator that tilts light rack 24, 120 degrees is availablefrom Motion Systems Corporation, Box 11, Shrewsburg, N.J. 07701, undermodel number 85151 and is a 500 pound loading, 12 inch stroke device.

The actuator to tilt the boom base 180 degrees is available from MotionsSystems Corporation, under model 85559 and is rated at 1,500 pounds witha 24 inch stroke.

It is to be understood that the angles of rotation or movement of thevarious components of system 10 are given as general estimates and inactuality may vary a few degrees.

It will be appreciated that the present invention can take many formsand embodiments. The true essence and spirit of this invention aredefined in the appended claims, and it is not intended that embodimentof the invention presented herein should limit the scope thereof.

What is claimed is:
 1. A mobile lighting system which can be transportedin operational form comprising:a mobile platform means; anarticulateable, rotatable, and extendable boom means mounted on theplatform means; a boom head means mounted on the boom means forproviding pivoting and rotational movement between the boom head and theboom means; a light fixture rack means pivotally attached to the boomhead means; light fixture mounting means attached to the rack means formounting light fixtures and allowing panning and tilting of eachfixture; one or more light fixtures each including a lamp means and areflecting means, each fixture being attached to said mounting means;electrical power generator means mounted on the platform means forproducing power for the boom means, boom head means, light fixturemounting means, light fixtures, and lamps; ballast means mounted on theplatform for providing ballast to the lamps; variable beam meansassociated with each light fixture for providing a variable beam patternfor each light fixture; cooling means for providing air flow to thefixtures and lamps to cool at least a portion of the fixtures and lampsduring operation; and control means mounted on the platform foroperating and controlling the system.
 2. The platform means of claim 1comprising a truck means including a truck bed.
 3. The system of claim 2wherein the truck means is a single rear axle truck.
 4. The system ofclaim 1 wherein the boom means is a multi-segment arm having one or morejoints, the arm being extendable, rotatable, and bendable.
 5. The systemof claim 1 wherein the boom means has an end which can be articulated toa majority of positions within substantially a sphere surrounding themobile platform means including positions around and beneath the levelof the platform means..
 6. The system of claim 1 wherein the boom headmeans is rotatable in almost a complete circle.
 7. The system of claim 1wherein the rack means comprises a frame to which can be mounted aplurality of light fixtures each of which can be panned or tiltedwithout interference with any other fixture.
 8. The system of claim 1wherein the mounting means for the light fixtures comprises a yoke meansallowing rotation of the fixture in first and second planes.
 9. Thesystem of claim 8 wherein the mounting means allows rotation in thefirst plane of approximately 360°.
 10. The system of claim 8 wherein themounting means allows rotation of the fixture in a second planegenerally 220°.
 11. The system of claim 1 wherein the lamp means iselongated along an axis and is axially positioned along the axis in agenerally parabolic shaped reflector means.
 12. The system of claim 1wherein the generator means is a fuel powered generator producingstandard voltage levels.
 13. The system of claim 1 wherein the ballastmeans includes a housing containing ballasts, the housing beingslideably mounted to the mobile platform means so that it can be movedto a position where the interior of the housing can be inspected. 14.The system of claim 1 wherein the variable beam means comprises a lampwhich is movable with respect to a reflector to alter the beam shapeemanating from the reflector.
 15. The system of claim 1 wherein thecooling means comprises a housing attached to a light fixture, thehousing having an air inlet and outlet and closing a fan means, the fanmeans drawing air through the inlet and directing the air into a conduitwhich is directed on at least a portion of the lamp in the fixture. 16.The system of claim 1 wherein the control means includes electroniccontrol and monitoring components which allows supervision of andinstructions to the system.
 17. The system of claim 1 wherein thecontrol means includes a hand-held control panel means electricallycommunicated to the mobile platform means which allows an operator tocontrol the system.
 18. The system of claim 1 further comprising aleveling means for determining electrically whether the platform meansis level.
 19. The system of claim 1 further comprising an isolationmeans for the lamp means, the isolation means including an insulatedhousing surrounding an end of the lamp means to retain heat generated bythat end of the lamp means to protect other components associated withthe light fixture.
 20. The system of claim 1 further comprising a singleend ignitor means for igniting the lamp means, the single ended ignitorbeing positioned in the light fixture mounting means.
 21. A mobilelighting system allowing quick transport and setup, easy maneuverabilityand manipulatibility, and flexible operation and control, comprising:aboom connected to a mobile self-powered platform; a boom base for theboom, rotatable around a first vertical axis; a boom arm having a firstsection extending between the boom base and a first joint, and secondsection extending between the first joint and the second joint; a boomhead means attached to the second joint, the first and second sectionsextendable along second and third axes, the first and second jointsallowing pivotal translation of the first and second sections and thehead; boom head being rotatably approximately 355° around the end of theboom arm around a fourth axis; a light rack attached to the boom head,the light rack moving correspondingly with the rotatably boom head;fixture mounts connected between the light rack and light fixtures,allowing pivoting of the light fixtures with respect to fifth and sixthaxes; and the combination allowing multiple degrees of freedom ofmovement of the fixtures, allowing them to be placed in a variety oforientations, substantially any where within a large spherical zonedefined in part by the length of the boom fully extended.
 22. The systemof claim 21 wherein the light fixtures contained relatively high wattagelamps.
 23. The system of claim 22 wherein the lamps are in the range of1,000 to 18,000 watt lamps.
 24. The system of claim 21 wherein theplatform comprises a single rear axle flatbed truck of medium size. 25.The system of claim 21 wherein the boom arm has an extended length ofseveral tens of feet.
 26. The system of claim 21 further comprisinggenerator means mounted on the platform.
 27. The system of claim 21further comprising electrical power means, electrical control means,ballast means, and motor means all contained on or in association withthe platform.
 28. A mobile lighting system comprising:a mobile basemeans; an extendable, articulateable crane means mounted on the basemeans; a light rack connected to the end of the crane means, the rackhaving a connection means to the crane means, and a frame means, theconnection means providing generally 355° rotation to the light rack,and the frame means including a front bar having opposite ends and twoside wing bars extending obtusely from opposite ends of the front barand diverging from each other; and fixture mounts on the front bar ofthe frame means, and additional fixture mounts towards distal ends ofthe side wing bars to space apart and offset the fixture mounts fromeach other.
 29. The system of claim 28 wherein the frame means iscentered and balanced with respect to the connection means to the cranemeans to facilitate balancing of the frame means in any rotational ororientation with respect to the end of the crane means.
 30. The systemof claim 28 wherein the fixture mounts are spaced apart to balance anyfixtures mounted to the frame means regardless of the orientation of theframe means or fixtures.
 31. The system of claim 28 wherein the fixturemounts comprise yoke means allowing pivoting of a fixture in at leasttwo different directions, and includes actuators and motors tomanipulate the yoke means.
 32. The system of claim 28 further comprisingcooling means associated with each fixture attached on a fixture mountto cool the interior of the fixture.
 33. The system of claim 28 furthercomprising a fixture mounted to a fixture mount, a reflector connectedto the fixture mount, and a lamp mounted to the fixture mount andenclosed substantially by the reflector.
 34. A mobile lighting systemcomprising:a mobile base means; an extendable and articulateable cranemeans connected to the base means; a light rack means connected to theend of the crane means; fixture mounts on the light rack means forattachment of light fixtures; motor means associated with the lightfixtures for panning and tilting of each fixture; the motor meansincluding a drive shaft connected to a motor; a gear having an axleconnected to the fixture mount; a pinion detachably connected to thedrive shaft and associated with the gear to translate rotationalmovement from the drive shaft to the gear; a cam means operativelyconnected to the axle; and the drive shaft pivotable with respect to thepinion to disconnect the drive shaft from the pinion, the pinion havingbias means to lock the pinion in position when the drive shaft ispivoted away from the pinion to prevent movement of the fixture when thedrive shaft is disconnected, the cam having a handle which can bemanually moved to manually turn the fixture axle and move the fixture.35. A mobile lighting system comprising:a mobile base; an extendable,articulateable crane; a light rack at the end of the crane; ballastmeans mounted on the mobile base, the ballast means comprising acontaining box, sealable air vents on the containing box, a fan withinthe containing box to cool the contents of the box;ballasts for lightson the light rack, and track means associated with the mobile base andthe containing box to allow the containing box to be slideably movedwith respect to the mobile base to allow access to the containing box,and securement means on the mobile base for securing the retaining boxpositioned with respect to the mobile base within a frame supporting themobile base.
 36. A mobile lighting system comprising:a mobile base; anextendable, articulateable crane; a light rack attached to the end ofthe crane; an on-board generator means producing power over a range offrequencies; a frequency monitor means for monitoring actual frequencyof the generator means; a desired frequency means to set a desiredfrequency for the generator means; comparative means for determining ifthe actual and desired frequencies are sufficiently close to oneanother; transmitter means for transmitting a signal if the desiredfrequencies are not sufficiently close; and receiving means to issue asignal that the actual and desired frequencies are not sufficientlyclose.
 37. The system of claim 36 wherein the receiving means signal istaken from the set comprising audible, visual and tactile signals.
 38. Amethod of mobile lighting comprising:placing an articulateable andextendable boom with a plurality of pivotable joints upon the bed of asingle rear axle truck means; placing electrical power generating meansand control means on the truck means; attaching an articulateable boomhead to the end of the boom means; attaching a light rack to thearticulateable boom head; attaching light fixture mounting means atspaced apart locations on the light rack, including means to pan andtilt each individual fixture; including ballast means on the truck mans;and transporting the entire preassembled, ready to operate components ofthe system to a lighting location with the light fixtures attached tothe boom during transport and utilizing the generating means tofacilitate operation of the boom means, boom head means, panning andtilting means, and operation of lamps in the fixtures to provide readyto light mobile lighting.